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The 25th World Energy Congress (WPC) opened in Riyadh on Oct. 11. Running through Oct. 15, the event is themed “Pathways to an Energy Future for All.” It is being held in Saudi Arabia for the first time.
The event had initially been scheduled for April 26-30. Organizers announced on March 17 that it had been postponed to a later date in 2026.
Organizers had expected more than 25,000 energy executives, policymakers and innovators to attend. An update at the end of September said more than 70 ministers, along with about 300 chief executive officers and senior executives, were expected.
According to a correspondent in Riyadh, many country pavilions and company stands at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center were empty on opening day, with almost no visitors. The program includes more than 30 sessions on energy security, oil and gas markets, artificial intelligence, financing, critical minerals and carbon management. Organizers hoped some events would take place on Monday, but this had not been confirmed.
Attacks on Riyadh airport
The congress is taking place amid rising tensions around King Khalid International Airport. Saudi officials said three people were killed in attacks earlier in the week. On Oct. 10, a missile struck the complex housing Terminals 3 and 4, which serve domestic flights.
A statement from Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation authority said those killed included four Saudis, two Bangladeshis, and one person each from Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Palestine and Sudan. Saudi officials said the overall toll was at least 12 people killed and more than 300 injured.
The Houthis did not claim responsibility for Saturday’s attack. However, they have linked themselves to earlier attacks on the airport. They also warned airlines against using Saudi airspace and declared the area a military operations zone.
The United Kingdom, France and Germany advised their citizens to avoid being in Riyadh.
Organizers say event will go ahead
Before Saturday’s attack, organizers had written to delegates that the congress would proceed as planned, with foreign leaders and ministers attending. “Your comfort is our priority,” they said, outlining alternative routes, including flying to Dammam and then traveling about four hours by car.
Organizers also promised security measures at Riyadh’s airports, conference venues and official hotels, as well as coordinated transportation. Even several hours after Saturday’s attack, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Energy continued promoting the congress.
Some officials have canceled their trips. Italy’s energy minister said he would join by video link the ministerial meeting of the International Energy Forum, which is being held alongside the congress. An analysis published in Haaretz noted uncertainty over how many of those invited to the event, planned for months, would actually attend.
The fighting in Yemen is part of a wider war. The conflict began after the United States and Israel attacked Iran on Feb. 28. The Houthis are striking ships in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while Iran is partially closing the Strait of Hormuz, putting pressure on oil supplies from Gulf countries. Saudi forces have struck Houthi missile launch sites and said they have intercepted numerous ballistic missiles.
Securing global energy supplies is a central theme of the congress. But the venue’s largely empty halls on the opening day, alongside the ongoing regional war, have raised questions about whether the discussions will yield results.
